How to Become an LPN (Succeed in Scrubs)

If you’ve ever dreamed of helping others by providing quality healthcare or wondered what it takes to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to kickstart your career as an LPN. We’ll talk about:

• The skills you need.
• The education that is necessary for this profession.
• How to secure a job as an LPN.

So, whether you’re new to the healthcare field or an experienced professional looking to shift gears, stay with us.

We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an LPN.

Let’s get started!

Steps to Become an LPN

 

Step 1: Understand the Role of an LPN

Before embarking on the educational journey to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), it is crucial to understand the role and responsibilities of an LPN.

LPNs provide basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses and doctors.

They usually work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, and home health care.

LPNs are typically responsible for tasks such as measuring and recording patients’ vital signs, administering medication, assisting with personal hygiene, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.

LPNs also need to have strong communication skills as they are often the bridge between patients and doctors or registered nurses.

The job of an LPN can be physically demanding and emotionally draining, but it can also be immensely rewarding.

Understanding these realities will help you decide whether this career path is right for you and prepare you for the challenges and triumphs ahead.

 

Step 2: Obtain High School Diploma or GED

Before pursuing a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), it is necessary to first obtain a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) credential.

This is a fundamental requirement as it forms the basis for further education in nursing.

During high school, it can be beneficial to focus on science and health-related courses, such as biology, chemistry, health science, and even psychology.

These subjects can provide a valuable foundation for the nursing studies you will undertake in the future.

For those who may not have completed high school, a GED is an alternative.

A GED is equivalent to a high school diploma and is accepted by most colleges and vocational schools.

It consists of four main parts: Math, Science, Social Studies, and Reasoning Through Language Arts.

By studying and passing the GED, you’ll be prepared to begin your journey towards becoming an LPN.

Both the high school diploma and the GED show your competence in basic areas of study and are essential stepping stones towards the next phase of your education and training in nursing.

 

Step 3: Complete Prerequisite Courses

Before you can enroll in a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, you must first complete certain prerequisite courses.

These prerequisite courses are generally related to the medical field and may include biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, psychology, and basic math.

Some schools may also require courses in nutrition and human development.

These courses are designed to provide the foundational knowledge you will need as an LPN.

It’s important to understand the human body, how it functions, and how to take care of it.

This knowledge will be crucial in your everyday work as an LPN.

Remember to check with the specific LPN program you plan to attend for the exact prerequisite requirements.

It is also important to make sure that you perform well in these courses as your grades can impact your admission into an LPN program.

Excelling in these courses can demonstrate your aptitude for the rigorous medical curriculum and your dedication to the nursing profession.

 

Step 4: Enroll in an Accredited LPN Program

After completing your prerequisites, the next step in becoming an LPN is to enroll in an accredited LPN program.

These programs are available at many community colleges, technical schools, and even some universities.

They typically take one year to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice.

In the classroom, you’ll learn the basics of nursing such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical surgical nursing.

You’ll also take courses in pediatric and obstetric nursing as well as geriatric care.

The clinical practice component of the program allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world healthcare setting under the supervision of an experienced nurse.

This part of the program is critical as it gives you hands-on experience with patients, enabling you to develop your bedside manner, improve your practical skills and gain experience in different healthcare settings.

When choosing a program, make sure it is accredited by the state nursing board or a recognized accrediting body such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Attending an accredited program is important because it ensures the program meets certain educational standards and it’s usually a requirement for licensure and job opportunities.

Remember, some programs may have competitive admission, so keep your grades high and gain healthcare experience if possible.

 

Step 5: Complete Clinical Training

After completing your academic education, the next step is to complete your clinical training.

This is a critical part of becoming an LPN as it provides you with hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

Clinical training is often integrated into LPN educational programs and is conducted under the supervision of experienced nurses or physicians.

During this phase, you will have the opportunity to work with patients directly, learning how to assess their conditions, communicate effectively with them, and perform basic nursing duties such as administering medications, dressing wounds, and recording patient information.

It’s also a chance to gain experience in different healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and private practices.

Clinical training not only equips you with the practical skills needed in the nursing profession but also helps you to develop essential qualities such as empathy, patience, and adaptability.

Always remember to take full advantage of this training period, ask questions, and learn as much as you can.

After completing clinical training, you’ll be better prepared for the real-world challenges of being an LPN.

Following this, you can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become a licensed practical nurse.

 

Step 6: Apply for Licensure and Pass the NCLEX-PN

After you have completed your LPN training program, the next step to becoming a fully licensed practical nurse is to apply for licensure and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

This exam is a requirement for all LPN hopefuls in the United States.

To apply for licensure, you will need to submit an application to your state’s Board of Nursing.

This process often includes submitting transcripts from your LPN program, undergoing a criminal background check, and paying an application fee.

Once your application has been approved, you are eligible to register for the NCLEX-PN.

This exam tests your knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice.

It covers four major areas: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

It’s important to adequately prepare for the NCLEX-PN.

Use study materials, take practice tests, and consider joining a study group or enrolling in a prep course.

After you pass the exam, you will officially be a licensed practical nurse and can begin your career in the nursing field.

Remember, each state may have slightly different requirements for licensure, so make sure to check with your specific state’s Board of Nursing to ensure you meet all necessary prerequisites.

 

Step 7: Consider Additional Certifications

As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you might want to consider obtaining additional certifications to enhance your career prospects and deepen your nursing skills.

There is a myriad of specialized certifications available that can give you an edge in the competitive job market.

For instance, you can pursue an IV Therapy Certification if you want to specialize in administering intravenous therapies, or a Gerontology Nursing Certification if you’re interested in working with the elderly.

Getting a Pharmacology Certification can also be beneficial if you want to work in medication administration and drug safety.

Similarly, a certification in wound care could open doors to jobs in surgery departments, nursing homes, or home health care.

Before choosing a certification, think about your career goals and what you enjoy most about nursing.

Is it working with a specific group of patients, such as infants or the elderly?

Or, do you prefer a particular type of care like wound management or infusion therapy?

Your answers to these questions can help guide your choice of certification.

Remember, these certifications not only make you more attractive to employers but also offer a chance for higher pay and greater job responsibilities.

Remember to check the requirements for each certification.

Some may require a certain amount of experience in a specific field, while others may require you to pass an exam.

Ensure you meet all the prerequisites before applying for any certification program.

 

Step 8: Apply for Jobs and Prepare for Interviews

As an LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, it’s now time to put all your hard-earned skills and qualifications to use by applying for jobs.

Research LPN job openings using various online job portals, healthcare organizations’ websites, and nursing job boards.

When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job.

Highlight your clinical skills, patient care experiences, and any specialty areas of nursing that you’ve trained in.

Showcase your ability to work well in a team, as nursing is often collaborative, and emphasize your communication skills, as these are crucial when interacting with patients and their families.

Once you’ve applied for jobs, it’s time to prepare for interviews.

Review typical nursing interview questions and practice your responses.

Be prepared to provide examples from your clinical experiences to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.

Reflect on your experiences during your LPN program, including your interactions with patients, your response to critical situations, and your ability to work as part of a healthcare team.

In addition, research the healthcare organization before your interview.

Understanding the organization’s culture, mission, and values can help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your fit for the role.

During your interview, be professional, be honest, and show enthusiasm for the role and the organization.

 

Step 9: Continue Learning

As an LPN, your education doesn’t end once you’re licensed.

The healthcare field is ever-evolving, with new techniques, treatments, and technologies being introduced all the time.

To stay competitive and provide the best possible care to your patients, it’s essential to keep learning and stay up-to-date.

One way to continue learning is by attending professional development workshops and seminars.

These will allow you to learn about the latest advancements in healthcare and how they apply to your role as an LPN.

Many employers will cover the cost of these events, so be sure to check with your employer about this opportunity.

You should also consider pursuing additional certifications.

These not only increase your skills and knowledge, but they can also make you more attractive to employers and potentially increase your salary.

Some popular certifications for LPNs include IV therapy certification, gerontology certification, and pharmacology certification.

Lastly, reading medical journals, joining professional LPN organizations, and participating in online forums can be beneficial.

This not only keeps you informed about the latest healthcare news, but also allows you to network with other LPNs and healthcare professionals.

Remember that learning is a lifelong process in the healthcare profession.

By continually updating your knowledge and skills, you can ensure that you’re providing the best possible care for your patients.

 

Step 10: Advance Your Career

As an LPN, you have many opportunities to advance your career.

One common path is to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

To do this, you can either enroll in a traditional RN program, which often takes two years to complete, or you can enroll in an LPN-to-RN bridge program, which is typically shorter and builds on the knowledge you already have as an LPN.

While in an RN program, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more in-depth about nursing theory, health assessment, and research.

You’ll also gain more clinical experience in a variety of settings.

After completing an RN program, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your RN license.

Another way to advance your career is by earning specialized certifications.

These could be in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or wound care.

These certifications can not only make you more marketable to employers but can also increase your salary.

Lastly, consider obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

This degree can open up leadership and management opportunities in nursing, and some employers may prefer or require a BSN.

There are LPN-to-BSN programs available which are designed for working nurses and can be completed in two to three years.

Always keep learning and improving your skills.

Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs.

Be open to feedback and continually strive to provide the best patient care possible.

The healthcare field is always evolving, and as an LPN, it’s important to evolve with it.

 

LPN Roles and Responsibilities

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RN) and doctors.

They are responsible for monitoring patients’ health, administering basic patient care, and providing comfort to patients.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Patient Care

• Monitor patients’ health including vital signs, reaction to medication, and progress.
• Provide basic patient care, such as changing bandages, dressing wounds, and administering medication.
• Provide direct patient care by helping with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene.

 

Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate patient records and report any changes in a patient’s condition to the RN or doctor.
• Document patient interactions as per hospital and legal requirements.
• Coordinate with healthcare team to plan, implement, and assess patient care plans.

 

Communication

• Communicate effectively with patients and families to inform them about care plans and progress.
• Facilitate communication between patients, family members, and healthcare providers.

 

Health Education

• Teach patients and families about healthy practices and continuing care procedures.
• Provide information and answer questions about health conditions and treatment plans.

 

Administrative Tasks

• Perform administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and maintaining medical charts.
• Coordinate with healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care.

 

Compliance

• Comply with healthcare laws, regulations, and standards.
• Adhere to privacy and confidentiality regulations when dealing with patient information.

 

Emergency Response

• Assist in emergency nursing procedures necessary for prompt control of changes in patient’s physical condition.
• Perform basic emergency medical procedures, such as first aid and CPR.

 

Continuous Learning

• Participate in continuous learning and nursing training programs.
• Keep up-to-date with the latest practices, treatments, and medical breakthroughs relevant to nursing.

 

What Does an LPN Do?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, doctor’s offices, and private homes.

LPNs are responsible for providing basic nursing care under the direction of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors.

They administer medications, monitor patient health, assist with procedures, and perform routine lab tests.

Their daily tasks include measuring vital signs, changing dressings, bathing and dressing patients, recording patient health concerns and reporting them to the RN or doctor, and maintaining patient health records.

LPNs also play a crucial role in patient education.

They instruct patients and their families on proper home healthcare, such as managing illnesses or injuries, nutrition, and prescribed medications.

In some settings, LPNs may also supervise nursing assistants and aides.

Their job is to ensure that patients are receiving the best possible care and to assist in making their stay as comfortable as possible.

All LPNs must have a state license, which is obtained by completing a state-approved practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN examination.

 

Essential LPN Skills

• Communication: An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) must be able to communicate effectively with patients, families, doctors, and other healthcare providers. They should be able to accurately convey patient information, treatment plans, and any changes in a patient’s condition.
• Patient Care: The primary responsibility of an LPN is to provide basic medical and nursing care to patients. This includes administering medication, changing bandages, checking vitals, and helping patients with personal hygiene.
• Physical Stamina: LPNs often work long hours and spend a lot of time on their feet. They may also need to assist in moving or lifting patients, hence physical endurance is essential.
• Observational Skills: LPNs must closely monitor and record patient conditions. They need sharp observational skills to detect any changes in patient health that could require immediate medical attention.
• Compassion: Nurses often work with patients in pain or distress. A sense of empathy and understanding can make a significant difference in providing comfort and care to these patients.
• Time Management: LPNs often care for multiple patients simultaneously. Good time management skills are needed to ensure all patients receive timely and appropriate care.
• Detail-Oriented: LPNs must pay attention to detail as they need to keep accurate records, administer medication, and follow specific care plans.
• Stress Management: The nursing profession can be stressful due to long hours, high-stakes decisions, and dealing with illness and mortality. An LPN must have effective stress management strategies.
• Technical Skills: LPNs must have practical nursing skills such as wound care, patient assessment, infection control, and the ability to use various medical equipment.
• Adaptability: Every day in nursing can bring new and unexpected challenges. LPNs must be adaptable and flexible in their approach to respond to changing situations.

 

LPN Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Entry-Level LPN

Your journey typically starts as an Entry-Level Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

This stage involves a steep learning curve as you start applying the theoretical knowledge gained during your nursing program into practice.

Your responsibilities may include basic patient care, administering medication, and maintaining patient records.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest medical practices and healthcare technologies.
2. Seek Mentorship: Learn from senior nurses and doctors, and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.
3. Care and Compassion: Provide excellent care to patients and show compassion in all your interactions.

 

The Ascent: Experienced LPN

With time and experience, you transition to an Experienced LPN role.

This stage allows you to take up more responsibilities and often serves as a stepping stone towards more specialized nursing roles.

You may also provide supervision to entry-level LPNs and nursing aides.

Here’s how to excel in this stage:

1. Specialization: Consider getting certified in specialized areas like geriatric or pediatric nursing to enhance your career prospects.
2. Leadership: Develop leadership skills as you may have to supervise lower-level nursing staff.
3. Communication: Enhance your communication skills for effective interaction with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

 

Reaching New Heights: LPN Supervisor

The next step is the LPN Supervisor position.

At this stage, you not only carry out nursing duties but also manage a team of LPNs. You may have a hand in hiring, training, and creating schedules for your team.

To thrive as an LPN Supervisor:

1. Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and organizational skills to manage your team effectively.
2. Decision Making: Improve your decision-making abilities as you’ll have to make critical decisions regarding patient care and team management.
3. Mentorship: Provide guidance and support to your team members to help them grow professionally.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Advanced Nursing Roles and Beyond

As your career progresses, you may decide to further your education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or even a Nurse Practitioner (NP).

These roles involve more complex patient care, leadership responsibilities, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Further Education: Consider getting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nursing to open up more advanced career opportunities.
2. Advanced Care: Develop skills for more complex patient care, including diagnosis and treatment planning.
3. Leadership: Continue honing your leadership skills as you take on roles with greater responsibility.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Nursing

At the top of the nursing career ladder, you might find roles like Director of Nursing.

In this position, you’ll oversee the entire nursing staff of a healthcare facility, develop policies, and ensure the highest standards of patient care.

As a Director of Nursing, you’ll also be involved in strategic decision-making and managing larger teams.

 

LPN Salary

Entry-Level LPN

• Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
• Entry-level Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) typically have 0-2 years of experience and hold a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in practical nursing.

 

Mid-Level LPN

• Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
• Mid-level LPNs have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex patient care responsibilities under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors.

 

Senior LPN

• Median Salary: $55,000 – $65,000 per year
• Senior LPNs possess 5+ years of experience and often take on leadership roles within their healthcare teams, coordinating patient care and mentoring junior LPNs.

 

Lead LPN / LPN Supervisor

• Median Salary: $65,000 – $75,000 per year
• These roles require significant experience and often involve supervising nursing staff, managing patient care, and making critical decisions.

 

Director of Nursing / LPN Manager

• Median Salary: $75,000 – $90,000+ per year
• These high-level positions require extensive experience and often involve managing a team of nurses, overseeing patient care, and coordinating with doctors and other healthcare professionals.

 

LPN Work Environment

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) typically work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and doctor’s offices.

They may also provide home healthcare services or work in residential care facilities.

Due to the nature of healthcare, LPNs often work full-time and may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Their schedules may also involve working long hours on their feet and being physically active.

After gaining a significant amount of experience and training, some LPNs may choose to pursue additional education and licensing to become registered nurses or pursue other advanced healthcare roles.

LPNs can also choose to specialize in areas such as gerontology, intravenous therapy, or pharmacology.

 

FAQs About Becoming an LPN

What is needed to become an LPN?

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you need to complete a state-approved nursing program, which typically takes one year.

These programs are often offered by vocational schools or community colleges.

In addition to classroom learning, you will also participate in supervised clinical experiences.

Following your education, you must pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) to become licensed.

Key skills include basic nursing skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and empathy.

 

How long does it take to become an LPN?

The time it takes to become an LPN can vary depending on the program you choose.

Most LPN programs take about 12 months to complete, including both classroom study and clinical practice.

After completing the program, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, which can take several months of preparation.

So, from start to finish, it could take about 1 to 2 years to become an LPN.

 

Can I be an LPN without a degree?

While you don’t need a traditional four-year degree to become an LPN, you do need to complete a state-approved nursing program.

These programs typically culminate in a diploma or certificate rather than a degree.

However, some LPNs choose to further their education by obtaining an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing, which may offer more career opportunities and higher pay.

 

Is being an LPN a stressful job?

Being an LPN can be stressful at times, as the job often involves dealing with patients in poor health or distress, handling emergency situations, and juggling multiple responsibilities.

However, it can also be very rewarding, as LPNs play a crucial role in providing care and improving patients’ quality of life.

Dealing with the stress effectively requires strong coping skills, good self-care, and a supportive work environment.

 

What are the prospects for LPNs in the next decade?

The job outlook for LPNs is expected to grow in the next decade, with a projected growth rate higher than the average for all occupations.

This is driven by the aging population and the growing demand for healthcare services.

LPNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, doctors’ offices, and home healthcare services.

With additional training and education, LPNs also have opportunities for advancement, such as becoming a registered nurse.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Setting out on the path to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is certainly a commitment, but one that is truly fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your journey to making a significant difference in the healthcare industry.

Remember, the road may be challenging, but the rewards are boundless. Your care and compassion could lead to improved patient experiences and outcomes, transforming the way healthcare is delivered.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in your studies. Connect with healthcare professionals. And most importantly, always continue learning.

Because the world is waiting for what you can achieve.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as an LPN, have a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide customized advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.

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